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Choosing the right name for your business is a crucial step in creating a brand that resonates with your audience. Your business name doesn’t just identify your company; it sets the tone, sparks curiosity, and builds the foundation for your brand’s identity. But how do you find that perfect name? Don’t worry—I’m here to guide you through it with a simple, intuitive process.
Step 1: Define Your Brand’s Essence
Before you dive into brainstorming names, take a moment to define what your brand is all about. What’s your mission? What values drive you? What kind of vibe do you want to project? Think about the essence of your brand and how you want to be perceived. This clarity will help guide your name search.
Example:If your brand is centred around wellness and empowerment, words like “balance,” “harmony,” or “thrive” might align with your core values.
Step 2: Get Inspired by Words and Ideas
Start by brainstorming words, concepts, or ideas that resonate with you. Don’t worry about whether they directly relate to your business; the key is to find something that feels right to you. The inspiration could come from anywhere—a favourite book, a meaningful place, or even a random thought that just sticks.
Example:One of my clients named her business “Turnstone” after a bird she felt inspired by. It doesn’t describe what she does (executive coaching), but it perfectly captures the essence of resilience and adaptability that she brings to her work.
Step 3: Keep It Simple and Memorable
Your business name should be easy to remember, pronounce, and spell. Simple names tend to stick in people’s minds, making them more likely to talk about you. Avoid overly complex or difficult-to-spell names—they can create unnecessary barriers for your audience.
Example:Names like “Glow,” “Elevate,” or “Zenith” are simple, clear, and easy to recall.
Step 4: Check Availability Early
Once you’ve got a few names you like, it’s time to check if they’re available. This is a critical step to ensure you can secure the domain name and social media handles you want, which helps keep your branding consistent across all platforms.
Tip:Even if your first choice isn’t available, don’t get discouraged. Sometimes tweaking a name slightly can open up new possibilities that are just as good, if not better.
Step 5: Test the Name
Before you commit, test the name in a few different ways. Say it out loud, write it down, and imagine it on your business cards or website. How does it feel? Does it roll off the tongue? Does it look good in writing? This step helps ensure that the name works in all the ways you’ll be using it.
Example:Try saying, “Welcome to [Your Business Name]” out loud. Does it feel natural? Does it represent the experience you want to create for your customers?
Step 6: Get Feedback, but Trust Your Gut
It’s always helpful to get feedback from trusted friends, family, or even potential customers. Ask them what comes to mind when they hear your chosen names. However, remember that the final decision is yours. Trust your intuition—if a name feels like a “full body yes,” then it’s likely the right choice.
Example:Ask, “When you hear the name ‘EchoPath,’ what do you think of?” But if you feel strongly about it, trust your instincts.
Step 7: Secure Your Name
Once you’ve found a name that ticks all the boxes, it’s time to secure it. Purchase the domain, claim the social media handles, and register your business name if needed. This step locks in your brand identity, allowing you to confidently move forward with your business.
Tip:Act quickly—once you’ve found a name you love, don’t delay in securing it. The digital landscape moves fast, and you don’t want to lose your perfect name to someone else.
In a Nutshell
Choosing a business name is an exciting and personal process. It doesn’t need to be overly complicated—just follow your intuition, keep it simple, and make sure it resonates with you. Remember, your brand will build the connection between your name and what you do. Trust yourself, and enjoy the journey of finding a name that feels like the perfect fit.
Ready to name your business? Start brainstorming, check availability, and trust that you’ll know when you’ve found the one!
Your Brand Guardian,
Heléne
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